Nashville, TN – The Tennessee Department of Education this morning launched the state’s largest ever teacher training focused on the implementation of the Common Core State Standards in math and English.

More than 32,000 Tennessee teachers have signed up for this voluntary training held in 17 different locations over the course of six weeks. Math training will occur in June, and English language arts and literacy training will take place during three weeks in July.

The department launched its first wide-scale Common Core training last summer when 13,000 teachers from across the state convened to examine the shifts in math standards, and this year’s efforts reflect the department’s relentless commitment to support teachers as they transition to the Common Core State Standards.

“The scale of this training marks an unprecedented commitment to equip students with the critical thinking skills necessary to compete,” Education Commissioner Kevin Huffman said. “We are dedicated to giving our teachers the support they need to drive toward excellence during this transition.”

More than 1,200 teachers applied to act as Core Coaches during this summer training, and 700 were ultimately appointed by the department to guide their peers as they learn more about the standards.

“Our Core Coaches are buzzing with excitement about facilitating this discussion on implementation,” said Emily Barton, the department’s assistant commissioner of curriculum and instruction. “They have been working all spring to deeply understand what these standards mean. They are ready to share these lessons with their peers as we work to help all students reach high expectations.”

Tennessee is among a group of 45 states and the District of Columbia that have adopted the Common Core State Standards as a way to set clear expectations for what students should learn in school, and align their education with necessary knowledge for college and careers. The Common Core State Standards drive teachers to focus on much fewer standards, which require deeper engagement in fundamental concepts.